💸 Safestay reported a decrease in revenue to £20.6m for the year ending December 31, 2025, down from £23m in 2024. UK revenue fell by 6% to £8.5m, and overseas revenue dropped 13.5% to £12.1m. Total bed nights decreased by 6% to 877,674. The company expanded to 22 properties in 2025, selling two freehold sites but adding three hostels in Italy and Austria. Occupancy fell to 70%, with revenue per bed at £16.43.
🏨 Vine Hotels, in partnership with Castlewood Hotels, acquired The Gables Hotel in South Gloucestershire from Webb Hotel Group for an undisclosed sum. The 46-bedroom hotel, located off the A38 near Bristol, features 104 parking spaces, meeting rooms for up to 200 delegates, and an 80-seat restaurant. This acquisition, following the addition of Hotel Collingwood in Bournemouth, highlights Vine Hotels' expansion goals. Webb Hotel Group retains properties in the Midlands, including Moor Hall Hotel in Sutton Coldfield.
🍳 Zeal Hotels appointed Zibi Klapsia as executive chef at Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, recognized as IHG Hotels' 2025 opening of the year. Klapsia, formerly of Accor and South West venues like Gidleigh Park, will focus on lifecycle net-zero carbon strategies. Zeal plans to expand sustainable hotels across the UK. Klapsia emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, particularly seafood, and aims to create memorable dining experiences highlighting sustainability and exceptional hospitality.
🏨 Elegant Hotel Collection rebranded as Elegant Hotels of the World, adding seven independent hotels across the UK and Asia-Pacific. Locations include The Lakes by YOO in Cotswolds, Foxhills in Surrey, and three London sites: The Zetter Bloomsbury, Fulham Pier Hotel, and Bertrand’s Townhouse. Additional sites are Tanah Gajah in Bali and TreeHouse Villas Koh Yao in Thailand. A new five-star tier, Masterpiece, was launched, alongside a website for curated collections and guides. HotelREZ manages the broader portfolio.
🏨 Kristian Campbell is the new general manager at Fairmont St Andrews, a 520-acre resort in Scotland, as it approaches its 25th anniversary. Previously from Elanic Medical and Crieff Hydro Resort, Campbell aims to boost operational excellence, commercial growth, and local partnerships. The resort, featuring golf courses, dining, and a wellness center, is set to celebrate its history and community while evolving for future success.
🏨 Reservations are now open for the Waldorf Astoria London – Admiralty Arch, set to launch this autumn after a multi-million pound restoration by Reuben Brothers. Located on The Mall opposite Buckingham Palace, this Grade I listed monument spans 200,000 square feet and features 114 rooms and suites. Culinary experiences by Clare Smyth and Daniel Boulud highlight the offering, with a ballroom and private spa also available. This marks the hotel's debut in welcoming overnight guests.
📍 The Crown Hotel in Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway, is on sale for £895,000. It features 15 en suite rooms and a function space for 120 guests. Sinead Farrell, owner since 2008, is selling due to relocation. Tony Spence of Christie and Co is handling the sale, noting its strong income potential. The hotel has development potential as a wellness retreat or boutique lodge. Regional hotel market demand is rising, driven by the staycation trend.
🏨 Lucknam Park has appointed David Griffin as general manager to oversee operations and a significant refurbishment. With 20+ years of experience, Griffin will manage the Cotswolds estate, featuring 42 rooms, 9 cottages, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and 500 acres of parkland. The estate, part of the Emblems Collection, plans a spa overhaul, including an upgraded hydrotherapy pool and gym. Griffin aims to enhance guest experiences and wellness offerings in this iconic UK destination.
🏨 David Griffin has been appointed as general manager of Lucknam Park to oversee its operations and a major refurbishment. Griffin brings over 20 years of leadership experience in British hotels. The Cotswolds estate features 42 rooms, 9 cottages, a Michelin-starred restaurant, an equestrian centre, and 500 acres of parkland. The refurbishment, part of the Emblems Collection, includes enhancements to the spa and wellness facilities, with updates to the outdoor hydrotherapy pool and gym.